Imagine this: a sizzling steak, perfectly seared on the outside, yet juicy and tender on the inside, with every savory bite bursting with flavor. Imagine achieving this culinary perfection without needing a grill, stovetop, or a dozen pots and pans. Sounds like a dream, doesn't it? Well, hold on to your taste buds because we're about to turn that dream into a mouthwatering reality with the magic of the air fryer!
In a world where time is of the essence and convenience is king, the air fryer has emerged as the versatile appliance in the kitchen. It's not just for reheating leftovers or making frozen fries – it's your ticket to steakhouse-quality goodness right in the comfort of your home. Whether you're a culinary connoisseur or a kitchen newbie, we're about to share tips and tricks on how to cook steak. Like pan-fried or grilled steak, the air fryer will leave you with a crispy on the outside and a tender and juicy steak to die for.
What You Need To Make Air Fryer Steak
Steak
Choose your favorite cuts of steak, such as ribeye, sirloin steak, filet mignon, or New York strip. The cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak, so be sure to adjust accordingly. Remember, thick steak will take longer to cook than thinner cuts.
Olive oil or cooking oil of your choice
For brushing or marinating the steak to enhance flavor and ensure it doesn't stick to the air fryer basket.
Seasonings
Select your preferred seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, or any other herbs and spices that complement the steak's flavor.
Meat Thermometer
While not absolutely necessary, a meat thermometer is a handy tool to ensure your steak reaches the desired level of doneness (rare, medium rare, medium, etc.).
Tongs
You'll need tongs for flipping and handling the steak inside the air fryer.
Air Fryer Steak Recipe
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Rest Time
0 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Ingredients
Directions
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes, allowing it to reach the desired cooking temperature.
2. As the air fryer is preheating, brush both sides of the steaks with olive oil. This aids in achieving a nice sear and prevents sticking. Season the steaks with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
3. Gently place the seasoned steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If your air fryer is small or the steaks are large, you may need to cook them one at a time.
4. Air fry the steaks in the preheated air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for the following approximate times, flipping halfway through:
5. Rare: 8–10 minutes
6. Medium Rare: 10–12 minutes
7. Medium: 12–14 minutes
8. Medium Well: 14–16 minutes
9. Well Done: 16–18 minutes
10. These times are approximate and may vary based on your air fryer's wattage and the thickness of the steaks. It's essential to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 130–135 °F (55–57 °C).
11. Once the steaks reach your preferred level of doneness, delicately remove the perfectly cooked steak from the air fryer and transfer them to a plate. Allow the steaks to rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
12. Slice the steaks against the grain and serve them with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a salad. Enjoy your perfectly cooked air fryer steak!
Tips & Notes
Let It Come to Room Temperature: Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for approximately 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures more even cooking.
Use Oil Sparingly: Lightly brush or spray the steak with a small amount of oil (olive oil or cooking spray). Allowing the steak to come to room temperature helps create a crispy crust and prevents sticking during cooking.
Rest the Steak: Cooking steak in the air fryer is straightforward and simple. This helps keep the steak juicy and flavorful.
Slice Against the Grain: When serving, slice the steak against the grain for a more tender bite.
Nutritional Facts
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 1
Calories
580
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 42.2g
54%
Saturated Fat 13g
65%
Cholesterol 150mg
50%
Sodium 2437mg
106%
Total Carbohydrate 2.3g
1%
Dietary Fiber 0.8g
3%
Total Sugars 0.5g
Protein 50.5g
Vitamin D 0mcg
0%
Calcium 49mg
4%
Iron 3mg
18%
Potassium 54mg
1%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calorie a day is used for general nutrition advice.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Steak In An Air Fryer
The cooking time for the perfect air fryer steak can vary depending on several factors, including the thickness of the steak, the model and wattage of your air fryer, and your desired level of doneness. However, if you like your steak cooked a certain way, here's a general guideline for cooking times at 400°F (200°C) for steaks that are about 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) thick:
Rare: Air fry for 6-9 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of around 125-130°F (52-54°C).
Medium Rare: Air fry for approximately 9-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Verify the internal temperature, aiming for around 135-140°F (57-60°C).
Medium: Air fry for approximately 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Target an internal temperature of approximately 145-155°F (63-68°C).
Medium Well: Air fry for approximately 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches approximately 160-165°F (71-74°C).
Well Done: Air fry for approximately 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Verify that the internal temperature reaches 170°F (77°C) or higher.
Bear in mind that these times are approximate and may vary depending on the individual characteristics of your air fryer and the steak. Utilizing a meat thermometer is the most accurate method to determine the steak's doneness, ensuring it is cooked to your liking.
How To Use a Meat Thermometer to Check for Doneness
It's important to note that below temperature ranges are general guidelines and can vary slightly depending on factors such as the type of meat, its thickness, and personal preferences.
Rare (125-130°F or 52-54°C)
A cool, red center characterizes a rare steak. The meat is exceptionally tender and juicy with minimal cooking. The steak will have a soft and almost buttery texture at this temperature range.
Medium Rare (135-140°F or 57-60°C)
Medium rare is among the most preferred doneness levels, resulting in a pink and warm center with a slightly firmer texture than rare. The steak maintains its juiciness and tenderness, making it a favored choice for many enthusiasts.
Medium (145-155°F or 63-68°C)
A medium steak has a warm, pink-to-slightly-pink center with some juiciness, though not as much as medium rare. The texture is firmer than medium rare but still enjoyable for those who prefer a bit more doneness.
Medium Well (160-165°F or 71-74°C)
At this stage, the steak will have only a slight hint of pink in the center and will be much firmer compared to the previous doneness levels. It's a fitting choice for individuals who prefer well-cooked meat but still desire some juiciness.
Well Done (170°F or 77°C and above)
Well-done steaks have no pink in the center and are cooked thoroughly. Steaks are firmer and have less juice than rarer levels at this doneness level. Some people prefer well-done steaks for safety reasons or personal taste preferences, but they can be less tender and less flavorful due to extended cooking.
How To Store Leftover Steak
To store leftover steak, allow it to cool to room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. When thawing frozen steak, use the refrigerator for gradual thawing. When reheating, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Repurpose leftovers for sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries to add variety to your meals. Proper storage maintains flavor and quality, reducing food waste while allowing you to savor the deliciousness of steak on a future occasion.
Ways to elevate air fryer steak
Marinate for Flavor: Marinating your air fryer steak is like a secret flavor weapon. Combine a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, cayenne pepper, olive oil, and your choice of acid (like lemon juice or vinegar) to create a tantalizing marinade. Allow the steak to absorb these flavors for at least a couple of hours or overnight in the refrigerator. When it hits the air fryer, it'll burst with complex tastes.
Compound Butter Magic: Elevate your air fryer steak with compound butter. This is a delightful mixture of softened butter and various seasonings such as chopped herbs, garlic, or even a hint of citrus zest. After air frying, top your steak with a slice of this savory butter. As it melts over the hot steak, it adds an additional layer of richness and flavor.
Dry Aging Adventure: If you're feeling adventurous, consider dry aging your steak in the refrigerator. This process entails placing the steak in a controlled environment for several days. It intensifies the meat's flavor and tenderness, resulting in a steakhouse-quality experience.
Fruit-Infused Sauces: Elevate your air fryer steak game with fruit-based sauces. A red wine reduction, blueberry compote, or balsamic glaze can provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory meat, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Mushroom Magic: Sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic make an exceptional topping for steak. The umami-rich mushrooms add depth and earthiness to the dish, creating a perfect pairing with the steak's hearty flavors.
Herb-Crusted Delight: Elevate your air fryer steak's texture and taste by creating an herb crust. Combine finely chopped herbs, garlic, breadcrumbs, and a touch of olive oil to make a flavorful coating. Press this mixture onto the steak before air frying to achieve a delightful, aromatic crust.
Cheese Lover's Dream: Melt your favorite cheese over the steak in the air fryer. The creamy, gooey cheese adds a luxurious layer of indulgence that pairs exceptionally well with the beef's savory notes.
Experiment with Different Cuts: Expand your culinary horizons by trying different cuts of steak. Each cut offers unique flavors and textures. Whether it's a juicy tomahawk, a flavorful flank steak, or a succulent hanger steak, experimenting with various cuts can lead to exciting and diverse culinary experiences.
